LeoVegas Group, a prominent online gambling operator and the European arm of MGM Resorts International, has announced the appointment of Mattias Wedar as their new chief operating officer (CEO), effective immediately. Wedar is set to take over from company Co-Founder and CEO since 2011, Gustaf Hagman. The company was set up by Hagman, along with Robin Ramm-Ericson in 2011.
Official comments
Hagman was quoted as saying, “Founding and leading LeoVegas Group to become a market leader has been one of the greatest adventures of my life, and I am incredibly proud of everything we in ‘Team Leo’ have accomplished. When we launched in Sweden in 2012, the industry was in its infancy, and we were sailing in uncharted waters.
“With a strong team, great commitment, and a fantastic corporate culture, we navigated the course successfully and managed to become one of the leading international players – it is truly impressive. Now, as part of the MGM family, LeoVegas Group is now stronger than ever, and it is the right strategic moment to pass the baton to Mattias Wedar.”
On Wedar’s succession as CEO, Hagman added: “Mattias has been an invaluable asset from day one, and I am confident that he is the right person to take the Group to new heights. After 14 years of traveling and being constantly connected, I am now looking forward to a period of rest and more free time – but I will always be a part of ‘Team Leo’ and will continue to follow its success closely.”
The latest move comes months after former LeoVegas chief commercial officer (CCO) Chris Welch stepped down from his role. Meanwhile, another recent development saw LeoVegas appointing former Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) CEO Carl Brincat as its new Director of Policy and Regulatory Affairs.
Wedar’s past experiences
Wedar has previously worked with LeoVegas as its chief product and technology officer for the past six years. He then moved on to take over as Deputy CEO in April. With an extensive experience as an executive in the gaming industry, Wedar will be overseeing LeoVegas’ operations. He will report directly to MGM Resorts International Interactive President, Gary Fritz.
Commenting , Wedar said, “During the six years I have been part of what we call Team Leo, I have been consistently impressed by our innovation, pioneering spirit, and strong corporate culture. The success story that Gustaf and Robin began 14 years ago is stronger than ever, and we see many exciting opportunities on the horizon. I am honoured to have been entrusted with the challenge of taking on the role of CEO in LeoVegas Group’s new chapter, and I look forward to continuing to lead us towards new milestones.”
Fritz said, “Since MGM Resorts’ acquisition of LeoVegas Group three years ago, we have consistently delivered on our established growth strategy, with a strong focus on strategic investments and the establishment of BetMGM as a leading global igaming and sports betting brand. Gustaf Hagman’s leadership and LeoVegas Group’s expertise in product development and local market expansion have laid the foundation for positioning both BetMGM and LeoVegas as global leaders in the industry.
“I would like to thank Gustaf for his dedication and leadership, and I have full confidence that LeoVegas Group, under Mattias’ leadership, will continue to deliver on our strategic plan. We look forward to supporting him and LeoVegas Group in our shared growth journey.”
Last year in December, The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) announced that LeoVegas Group has joined its membership. The EGBA, based in Brussels, serves as the voice of Europe’s online gambling industry, representing operators committed to responsible practices and regulatory compliance. The association engages with institutions in the European Union (EU) on regulatory matters impacting the digital economy, including new legislative measures currently being considered by the European Commission.
